Revealed: Arafat’s Former Private Jet Still Used for Secret Diplomatic Missions
The Challenger 604, Once Owned by Yasser Arafat, Continues Covert Flights Between Arab and Western Capitals, Raising Questions About Its Ongoing Role.
Watan-The Israeli newspaper Haaretz has uncovered intriguing details about the private jet once used by the late Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat, which remains active today in covert diplomatic missions across Arab and Western capitals.
The aircraft, a Challenger 604, was manufactured in Canada in 1999 and served as Arafat’s primary means of travel to the United States, China, and Europe during his presidency.
Ownership Changes and Secretive Operations
Following Arafat’s death in 2004, the aircraft underwent ownership changes, re-registration, and a new paint scheme. In 2016, it was officially registered in the Isle of Man under a Cypriot company called “Durstwell Limited”, owned by Palestinian-American businessman Bashar Masri.
According to reports, the aircraft is now stationed in Israel and operated by Shino Aviation, playing a key role in sensitive diplomatic flights—especially to countries that Israeli aircraft cannot officially enter, such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Iraq, and Turkey.
Increased Use During Trump Administration
During Donald Trump’s presidency, the aircraft’s usage spiked, with reports revealing that former U.S. envoy Adam Boehler utilized it for secret negotiations with Hamas, as well as unpublicized diplomatic visits to Doha, Cairo, Riyadh, and Ankara.
Despite its market value declining to just €3 million, the plane continues to be a crucial tool for undisclosed diplomatic operations, raising questions about its true mission and who benefits from its continued secret movements.
